When FamilySearch Has Other Plans
FamilySearch is one of the most valuable genealogy resources available today. It provides free access to millions of historical records from around the world, making it an indispensable tool for both beginning and experienced family historians. Yet, despite its remarkable collection, anyone who has spent much time researching there has probably experienced a moment that feels strangely familiar.
If you’ve ever watched Peanuts, you may remember Lucy confidently placing the football on the ground while promising Charlie Brown she won’t pull it away this time. Every time he believes her, he takes a running start—and every time, Lucy snatches the football away at the last second.
Genealogy research on FamilySearch can sometimes feel exactly the same.
One recent client project offered a perfect example. Records appeared to exist, indexes suggested the information should be available, and several promising links pointed toward the answer. Yet every promising lead introduced another obstacle. One record could only be viewed at a FamilySearch Center or affiliate library. Another collection contained an index but not the accompanying images. A third search returned no results until the place name was entered differently. Several image links simply refused to cooperate. FamilySearch helpfully suggested visiting a FamilySearch Center or affiliate library to view restricted records, but finding the right location, the right computer, and someone familiar with the process sometimes became part of the research adventure itself.
Then came the part that made me laugh.
After enough clicking, I realized I had completed a full circle. FamilySearch directed me to the Canadian Archives. The Canadian Archives pointed me back to FamilySearch. Another index led to a state marriage index, which ultimately directed me right back to where I had started. Somewhere along the way, I realized I wasn’t making progress anymore—I was simply running laps. At that point, I couldn’t help but think of Charlie Brown lining up for another kick while Lucy quietly smiled.
None of those situations meant the records were missing. They simply required a different approach.
Professional genealogy often involves learning to recognize these roadblocks and understanding what they actually mean. A restricted image may exist because of contractual agreements with the record custodian. An indexed collection may represent only part of a much larger collection. A search that returns nothing may simply require browsing images manually or consulting the FamilySearch Catalog instead of relying on the general search screen.
Over the years, I’ve learned that successful FamilySearch research isn’t simply about typing a name into a search box. It often requires trying alternate spellings, searching neighboring communities, browsing image by image, consulting the FamilySearch Catalog, or locating an affiliate library where restricted images can be viewed.
Eventually, the answer is often found—but rarely in the place you first expected.
Like Charlie Brown, genealogy researchers sometimes feel as though the football has been pulled away just before reaching the goal. The difference is that experienced researchers learn there is usually another path forward. When one approach fails, another often succeeds.
Following the evidence sometimes means changing direction rather than giving up.
Lessons Learned
- A missing search result doesn’t necessarily mean a missing record.
- Indexes, catalogs, and image collections don’t always point in the same direction.
- Sometimes the fastest way forward is to stop clicking and rethink your research strategy.
- Following the evidence—not just the hyperlinks.
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